This is quite strange, but seems very usual. SoundOHM runs a shop, so just like myself, if someone comes to physical store, asks for specific record and I get that from storage, I would need to take -1 copy from storage numbers so the mailorder wouldn't be fucked. Usually this is done. Occasionally there is such a hurry that "ok, I'll adjust the numbers when customers are out.." and forget about it. Missing one copy becomes issue only when you are down to the last copy and its not found. It is not often, but occasionally there is need to send mail to customer and tell title they just paid for can't be found. I am just amazed how many of the big distros operate in a way that the mess they need to clean up may be more work than the actual process of sending simple orders. One would think that now you can put correct number of copies to store and anyone who buys, usually gets what they paid for. Not like old days when you'd have to list ton of alternatives.
Also label trades sometimes.. You go through the list, spend time on checking what to get, how many, perhaps check out samples or something. Then receive reply a'la "this is sold out. that I can't give. This is not yet ready, will be coming in future, its only pre-order". And I am like fuuuuuck. I could have spent my time actually doing something other than going through stuff that ain't even available, but appears on the list.
Problem is mainly that it effects other things. Dragging trade deals, slow as fuck communication and so on. At least for me it leads into not wanting to go through bunch of other emails where I again have to start looking for information. Even if it might be simple trade offer. As we speak, I have bunch of emails should reply and I know the deals are dragging, but it is mainly result that of what described above. Opening mail and thinking... so I should find information of all these things and figure out do I need them?
Anyone who feels they are not receiving reply from Freak Animal, it is not a problem to send reminder. If message is simple and clear, usually its replied quick unless been buried to 2nd page of inbox. I prioritize getting store orders sent instantly and rest are done usually in order of how fast and simple they are to reply and process...